The Greater Londonderry YMCA will host two community fundraiser events next month to raise money for their annual “Reach Out for Youth and Families” campaign.
The campaign helps provide financial assistance to families in the community in need of summer and after-school childcare, as well as financial assistance to access programming and family classes, according to Branch Director Lisa Fitzgerald.
Last year’s campaign raised about $40,000 for families in need, and Fitzgerald said this year’s fundraising goal is $45,000.
“We raise those dollars to put back in the budget to help those in need,” she said. “There are families in need who wouldn’t have a safe place for their child to go in the summer.”
Fitzgerald noted the community center has also seen a trend toward grandparents taking custody of their grandchildren and struggling to access needed services.
“You can imagine what a struggle it is for them trying to support their grandchildren,” she said. “There is a larger need to support individuals and families within our community so they can participate in summer camp and after-school care. There are many parents who don’t want their kids to go home with a key to the house, and we provide a safe place for kids to be before and after school. We offer assistance with homework, healthy snacks and physical activity.”
The two main fundraising events for the campaign are the YMCA’s Community Kickball Game on May 14 and its “Red, White and Brews” wine and spirits auction on May 12 from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Castleton Banquet and Conference Center in Windham.
Fitzgerald said they are working to bring together teams from throughout the community to participate in the kickball game, including from their branch, the Fire Department, Police Department and families participating in their summer and after-school programs.
The Red, White and Brews auction is the campaign’s most significant fundraiser, with corporate sponsorships and quality auction items, including sports memorabilia, adventure outings, and spa packages, she said.
Guests will sample food from local restaurants and take part in wine and beer tastings.
Londonderry Times Publisher Deb Paul is a member of the YMCA’s Board of Directors.
Tickets for the auction are $25 per person and may be purchased online through the Granite YMCA website at www.graniteymca.org or by contacting Lisa Fitzgerald by phone at 437-6571.